Sociology Books

Explore the depths of human society and social behaviour in our extensive Sociology section. From theories and structures, to issues of globalisation and inequality, our selection offers insightful reads for both casual learners and seasoned sociologists. Delve into pivotal works that examine the narratives shaping our societies today.

1577 Results

Switch between grid and list views for a better book browsing experience!

1577 Results

No results

Diversity and Society: Race, Ethnicity, and Gender

$10.90

Unit price
per

You might find "Diversity and Society" to be a compelling read if you are interested in grasping the complexities of race, ethnicity, and gender in the United States. Healey and Stepnick offer an accessible yet scholarly approach, making it easier to digest the intertwining histories and contemporary issues that shape America's diverse social landscape. Their use of empirical data will appeal to anyone looking for an informed and nuanced discussion of minority experiences and societal relations.
Inside HBO's Game of Thrones

$12.90

Unit price
per

77% off est. retail
If you've been mesmerized by the intricate world of Westeros on screen, 'Inside HBO's Game of Thrones' is your backstage pass to the magic of the series. This book is a treasure trove of unseen photos, detailed artwork, and insider stories that will enrich your appreciation for the grand spectacle that HBO has brought to life. It's a must for any Thrones aficionado wanting to explore every crevice of the show's creation.
The Org: The Underlying Logic of Office Life
Tim Sullivan, Ray Fisman  | Twelve

The Org: The Underlying Logic of Office Life

Regular price $13.90 $11.90 14% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.35

Regular price $13.90 $11.90 14% off

Unit price
per

If you've ever felt bewildered by the intricacies of office culture or wondered why companies operate the way they do, "The Org" can offer you insights that are both enlightening and practical. It's like having a behind-the-scenes tour of the corporate world, shedding light on unwritten rules and the reasons behind them. This book could be your ally in navigating the often baffling world of organizational life.
Tell Me Who You Are: Sharing Our Stories of Race, Culture, and Identity

$11.90

Unit price
per

If you're keen on understanding the complex layers that shape race relations in America, "Tell Me Who You Are" might resonate deeply with you. Winona Guo and Priya Vulchi have crafted an insightful collection of stories that offer a refreshing perspective on how identity and culture intertwine, offering you a chance to broaden your own understanding by engaging with the personal experiences of others.
White Fragility: Why It's So Hard for White People to Talk About Racism

$8.90

Unit price
per

69% off est. retail
"White Fragility" is like a mirror, reflecting the often subconscious defensive moves made by white individuals when confronted with racial inequality. It's a deep dive into societal mechanics that maintain white supremacy, nudging you towards greater self-awareness and proactive change. If you're striving to play a part in social justice and want to ensure your actions and words align with true inclusivity, DiAngelo's insights could prove invaluable in navigating these complex and necessary conversations.
Enlightenment Now: The Case for Reason, Science, Humanism, and Progress

$24.90

Unit price
per

If you're feeling overwhelmed by negative headlines, "Enlightenment Now" might be just what you need. Steven Pinker presents a compelling case that life is getting better across the globe, thanks to Enlightenment principles. It's a refreshing perspective backed by hard data and historical analysis that challenges doom and gloom narratives. This read could be a much-needed reminder of human progress and the potential for reason and science to improve our future.
The Knowledge Illusion: Why We Never Think Alone

$39.90

Unit price
per

This book could really resonate with you if you're fascinated by the complexities of human cognition. Sloman and Fernbach delve into how we compensate for our individual cognitive limits by leaning on society's collective understanding. It's a compelling read that will give you a new perspective on how knowledge works and might even change how you think about your own thought processes.
Emotional Labor: The Invisible Work Shaping Our Lives and How to Claim Our Power

$15.90

Unit price
per

"Emotional Labor" is such a thought-provoking read for anyone who's felt the weight of unacknowledged work. Rose Hackman not only highlights the often-overlooked expectations placed on women but also offers a sense of solidarity and powerful tools for change. It's empowering and validating for those who've been silently shouldering this burden, providing a strong springboard toward equity and personal liberation.
Messy: How to Be Creative and Resilient in a Tidy-Minded World
Just Arrived

$9.90

Unit price
per

60% off est. retail
If you're feeling stifled by the pressure to always keep things neat, "Messy: How to Be Creative and Resilient in a Tidy-Minded World" by Tim Harford might be your breath of fresh air. Harford taps into the unexpected relationship between disorder and innovation. It's a thought-provoker that will give you the license to embrace a bit of disarray, potentially sparking your most creative ideas yet.
The Know-It-Alls: The Rise of Silicon Valley as a Political Powerhouse and Social Wrecking Ball

Regular price $18.90 $13.90 26% off

Unit price
per

62% off est. retail
This book dives deep into how Silicon Valley's tech titans have redefined not just the market, but society's very fabric. If words like 'innovation' and 'disruption' pique your interest, but you're also keen to understand the ripple effects on politics and community, then this might just be the read that broadens your perspective on the digital age's architects. It's an eye-opener about the untold consequences of a tech-ridden future.
The Capitalist Manifesto: Why the Global Free Market Will Save the World

$17.90

Unit price
per

If you're someone who is intrigued by economic systems and their impact on the world, "The Capitalist Manifesto" could really resonate with you. It's an optimistic take on how the free market can address global challenges, grounded in a deep belief in capitalism. Johan Norberg offers a vital exploration that counters much of the negative discourse surrounding capitalism today, providing a fresh perspective that you might find enlightening or at least thought-provoking.
To Gather Your Leaving: Asian Diaspora Poetry from America, Australia, UK & Europe

Regular price $6.90 $3.90 43% off

Unit price
per

If themes of home, identity, and movement resonate with you, then 'To Gather Your Leaving' will strike a chord. This anthology's rich poetry examines the global human experience, urging readers to contemplate the nuanced concepts of belonging and migration. Its contemporary relevance might just redefine your understanding of home in a world that's connected yet divided.
Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring: Witness poems and essays from Burma/Myanmar - Thryft

Regular price $7.90 $3.90 51% off

Unit price
per

83% off est. retail
If the courage of a people amid turmoil speaks to you, "Picking off new shoots will not stop the spring" offers a rare glimpse into that raw spirit. The compilation of poems and essays is not just literature; it's the heartbeat and the battle cry from the very core of Myanmar's struggle for democracy. It's an evocative and visceral anthology that binds the personal to the political, creating a poignant narrative that resonates with the universal quest for freedom and expression.
The Darcy Myth: Jane Austen, Literary Heartthrobs, and the Monsters They Taught Us to Love

$15.90

Unit price
per

If you've ever found yourself swooning over Mr. Darcy or daydreaming about a love-hate romance that turns unexpectedly tender, "The Darcy Myth" will offer you a thought-provoking new perspective. Rachel Feder digs deep into the roots of our romantic fascinations, tracing them back to the Gothic underpinnings of Austen's work. This book is perfect if you're keen on dissecting the darker side of our cultural obsessions with seemingly perfect but flawed lovers. It feels like a conversation with a friend who understands your love for classics but isn't afraid to challenge you with uncomfortable truths about our beloved literary heartthrobs.
The Coddling of the American Mind

$38.90

Unit price
per

If you're concerned about how today's cultural trends might be influencing personal growth and public discourse, "The Coddling of the American Mind" speaks directly to those fears. It's a provocative read that delves into the roots of current societal issues and offers a blueprint for fostering resilience and open-mindedness. Beyond academic interest, it's a compelling choice for anyone invested in understanding and shaping a healthier societal future.
21 Lessons for the 21st Century
Yuval Noah Harari | Jonathan Cape

21 Lessons for the 21st Century

$13.52

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.15

$13.52

Unit price
per

If the fast-paced changes and complexities of today's world sometimes overwhelm you, "21 Lessons for the 21st Century" might offer the clarity you need. Yuval Noah Harari has a way of distilling the zeitgeist into digestible concepts, helping you understand and reflect on the pressing issues that shape our time. It's like having a forward-thinking friend who can guide you through the maze of modern life’s challenges.
Obedience to Authority: An Experimental View

$10.90

Unit price
per

If you've ever wondered why people can sometimes act against their moral convictions under pressure from authority, "Obedience to Authority" will not only satisfy your curiosity but also challenge you. Milgram's work is a cornerstone in understanding our social fabric and the grim realities of power dynamics. It's a crucial read for anyone reflecting on responsibility and ethics in society.
If you're someone intrigued by the interconnectedness of life, the sacred, and the spiritual, "Circles of Meaning" might resonate with you deeply. Brendan Myers delves into how relationships form the core of our spiritual existence, challenging us to both recognize and protect them. Reading this could shift your understanding of spirituality from being an abstract concept to something palpable and interwoven with everyday life.
David and Goliath: Underdogs, Misfits, and the Art of Battling Giants

$8.90

Unit price
per

58% off est. retail
If you've ever felt like the underdog, "David and Goliath" by Malcolm Gladwell could resonate deeply with you. Gladwell's expertise in weaving psychology with real-life examples turns the age-old tale of David and Goliath into a manual for overcoming seemingly insurmountable obstacles. It's inspiring, thought-provoking, and could change how you confront your own giants.
Sapiens: A Brief History of Humankind

$8.90

Unit price
per

68% off est. retail
If you're intrigued by the story of humanity and want to understand how we became the dominant species on Earth, "Sapiens" is the perfect book for you. Through a captivating narrative, Harari takes you on a journey spanning thousands of years, examining what makes us unique as a species. From our ability to create powerful myths and cooperate in large numbers, to the impact we've had on the planet, "Sapiens" offers a thought-provoking perspective that will challenge and inspire you in equal measure.
Stop Reading the News : A Manifesto for a Happier, Calmer and Wiser Life - Thryft

$11.90

Unit price
per

Rolf Dobelli's bold stance might resonate with you if you're feeling overwhelmed by the relentless news cycle. This book isn't just a provocation; it's a guide for those looking to regain focus and reduce anxiety by cutting out the noise of constant news updates. It's a compelling proposition for a quieter, more introspective lifestyle, drawing from a decade of the author's personal experience.
This Is the Fire: What I Say to My Friends About Racism

$9.90

Unit price
per

59% off est. retail
If you're seeking a frank and personal perspective on the complexities of racism in America, Don Lemon's "This Is the Fire" could be enlightening. Lemon's role as a prime-time anchor informs his insights, offering an intimate look at the conversation around race, accountability, and the urgent need for progress. His accessible narrative might just spark your own discussions on these crucial issues.
Good read for those interested in moral dilemmas. Presents the trolley problem and its implications on our understanding of morality in a thought-provoking manner.
The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work
Alain de Botton | Vintage Books / Random House

The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work

Regular price $10.90 $9.71 11% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.62

Regular price $10.90 $9.71 11% off

Unit price
per

If you've ever wondered why we dedicate so much of our lives to our jobs, de Botton's "The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work" could offer some thoughtful perspectives. It's a book that doesn't just present the routines of the work world but digs deeper into what makes our professional endeavors both rewarding and sometimes soul-crushing. You might find it a compelling read, especially if you're at a crossroads in your career or simply looking for a fresh lens through which to view your daily grind.
What the Dog Saw and Other Adventures
Malcolm Gladwell | Allen Lane

What the Dog Saw and Other Adventures

Regular price $9.90 $3.90 61% off

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.85

Regular price $9.90 $3.90 61% off

Unit price
per

If your mind craves novels shaped like puzzles, where each essay unlocks a corner of the vast human experience, "What the Dog Saw and Other Adventures" might just be your next favorite. Malcolm Gladwell has a knack for spinning seemingly trivial topics into compelling tales. It's like a box of intellectual chocolates – each piece with a unique filling of insight, just for you.
Do Humankind's Best Days Lie Ahead?

$10.90

Unit price
per

If you're fascinated by the trajectory of human progress, "Do Humankind's Best Days Lie Ahead?" will challenge your perspectives. Steven Pinker and other notable thinkers engage in a profound debate that’s bound to get your mental gears turning. It’s a thought-provoking read about whether we're heading toward a brighter future or if we're too optimistic about our progress. Perfect for anyone who loves intellectual discourse on society’s direction.
Freakonomics
Stephen J. Dubner, Steven D. Levitt  | Penguin

Freakonomics

$3.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.01

$3.90

Unit price
per

84% off est. retail
If you enjoy having your mind playfully challenged with unexpected perspectives on everyday phenomena, "Freakonomics" might just be the intellectual rollercoaster you're looking for. It's not your typical economics book; it delves into the hidden side of things you thought you knew. Steven Levitt invites you on a journey through intriguing questions, revealing that at times, what you thought was cause and effect might just be a blend of coincidence and incentive.
Shaping the Future of the Fourth Industrial Revolution: A Guide to Building a Better World

$8.90

Unit price
per

65% off est. retail
If you're at all curious or concerned about how fast technology is changing our lives, this book is like a compass in a digital storm. Klaus Schwab comprehensively discusses the societal shifts imminent with the Fourth Industrial Revolution, offering insight into how we can actively participate in shaping these changes rather than being passive bystanders. It's a guide that empowers you to think critically and act on the intersection of technology, economy, and humanity.
We-Think
Charles Leadbeater | Profile Books

We-Think

$16.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.65

$16.90

Unit price
per

If you're fascinated by how collective intelligence is transforming our world, "We-Think" will feel like a map to the new frontier. Leadbeater deftly illustrates how platforms like Wikipedia and YouTube signify a shift from passive consumption to active, creative participation. It's thought-provoking and illuminates how this collective mindset is changing everything from work to politics.
Introducing Marxism

$13.90

Unit price
per

If you're curious about the underpinnings of socialism and communism, "Introducing Marxism" offers a digestible overview that connects Marx's thought to the historical movements it sparked. The authors don't just rehash outdated rhetoric; they position Marxism as a relevant ethical framework that continues to challenge and provoke in today's ever-shifting socio-economic landscape. This could be the book that clarifies complex ideologies and past prejudices for you.
Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead

$7.90

Unit price
per

68% off est. retail
This book could be a good read for you if you've ever felt held back by fear or the need to constantly appear strong. Brené Brown's "Daring Greatly" offers a powerful perspective on vulnerability, showing how it can be a source of strength and connection rather than weakness. Through her research and personal stories, she encourages readers to step into the arena of life and dare greatly, embracing the uncertainties and risks that come with it. This book provides a transformative guide to living a more authentic and fulfilling life by letting ourselves be seen.
Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking

$11.90

Unit price
per

39% off est. retail
"Blink" resonates with those curious about the subconscious mechanics of decision-making. If you've ever wondered why gut feelings are sometimes more reliable than meticulous analysis, Malcolm Gladwell's eye-opening insights on 'thin-slicing' and intuitive judgment will fascinate you. It's compelling for anyone looking to understand the psychology behind split-second decisions in our complex world.
Disability Rights and Wrongs Revisited
Tom Shakespeare | Routledge

Disability Rights and Wrongs Revisited

$26.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.32

$26.90

Unit price
per

65% off est. retail
If you've been seeking a book that dives deep into the intricacies of disability studies, "Disability Rights and Wrongs Revisited" might just be your next thought-provoking read. Tom Shakespeare doesn’t shy away from challenging established concepts in disability activism and research, pushing you to consider perspectives beyond the standard poles of the medical and social models. It's a comprehensive blend of current research, theory, and real-world implications that could expand your understanding of disability in society.
"Factfulness" feels like a refreshing dose of clarity in a world where pessimism often takes the front seat. Hans Rosling's expertise in public health shines through as he dismantles misconceptions with hard data, making you question the lenses through which you view global progress. It's a book that doesn't just lay out the facts but teaches you how to think differently about them. If you ever feel overwhelmed by the doom and gloom of the news, this book could be the optimistic yet realistic perspective you need.
Introducing Sociology - Graphic Guides
Piero, John Nagle  | Icon Books

Introducing Sociology - Graphic Guides

$8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.81

$8.90

Unit price
per

If you're someone who's always questioning societal structures and curious about the forces that shape people's lives, "Introducing Sociology: A Graphic Guide" could stoke that inquisitive fire. It's a visually engaging journey through important sociological concepts that can light up your understanding of the world around you. This book provides a clear, accessible path for readers of all backgrounds to grasp complex theories and ignite their sociological imagination.
Dishonesty Is the Second-Best Policy and Other Rules to Live By

$8.90

Unit price
per

If you find yourself shaking your head at today's headlines with a mix of disbelief and a craving for clever wit, David Mitchell's "Dishonesty Is the Second-Best Policy" might be your perfect companion. It offers a blend of humor and insight that can turn the dreariest current events into something to chuckle about. Consider it a dose of intelligent company and laughter in a world that often seems to have lost the plot.
Killing Rage: Ending Racism
bell hooks | Holt Paperbacks

Killing Rage: Ending Racism

$8.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.35

$8.90

Unit price
per

If you're seeking to deepen your understanding of racism interwoven with feminist thought, "Killing Rage" is a stirring collection that lays bare the complexities of race, gender, and their intersection. bell hooks' incisive essays will challenge you, provoke deep thought, and may inspire you for positive change, making it a must-read for anyone committed to social justice and equity.
The Anatomy of Violence: The Biological Roots of Crime

$12.90

Unit price
per

55% off est. retail
If you're fascinated by the interplay between biology and behavior, "The Anatomy of Violence" might just deepen your understanding. Adrian Raine takes you on a thought-provoking journey, exploring how genetics and environment could shape a predisposition to criminal behavior. This isn't just a collection of data; it's an ethical puzzle that will invite you to question everything you thought you knew about crime and punishment. If you love books that marry science with societal issues and stir a good debate, this one's likely right up your alley.
The Premonition: A Pandemic Story
Michael Lewis | Allen Lane

The Premonition: A Pandemic Story

$23.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.33

$23.90

Unit price
per

Imagine diving into the early days of the Covid-19 pandemic through the eyes of those who saw it coming. "The Premonition" is a thrilling account by Michael Lewis, who masterfully narrates the efforts of unconventional experts racing against time. Their foresight and relentless pursuit to understand and contain the virus are both educational and chillingly engaging. This isn't just about a virus; it's about human tenacity in the face of bureaucracy and the unknown. If you're drawn to real-world heroism amidst crisis, this book will resonate deeply with you.
Generational differences can often feel like they create a language barrier between age groups, don't they? Jean M. Twenge's 'Generations' is like a translator, peeling back the layers of misunderstanding. It's a thoughtful exploration into what makes each generation tick, from the Silent Generation to the emerging post-2012 cohort. If you're curious about how historical events and technological leaps have sculpted the views and values of each generation, this book offers a nuanced, engaging perspective that might just help bridge the conversational gaps at your next family reunion or team meeting.
Why We Work
Barry Schwartz | Simon & Schuster/ Ted

Why We Work

$10.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 3.63

$10.90

Unit price
per

"Why We Work" turns the common notion of work on its head by presenting a compelling argument that job satisfaction isn't solely linked to a paycheck. If you've ever felt like there's more to your 9-to-5 than just earning money, Schwartz's insights might resonate with you. It's an enlightening read for anyone re-evaluating their career path or searching for deeper satisfaction in their professional life.
Open Borders: The Science and Ethics of Immigration

$11.90

Unit price
per

If global socio-economics and moral quandaries pique your interest, "Open Borders" by Bryan Caplan could prove enlightening. Caplan's graphic nonfiction format turns a complex subject into an accessible and thought-provoking read. It challenges conventional thoughts on immigration policy with a blend of ethical perspectives and economic theory—all while being visually engaging. Whether or not you agree with his stance, Caplan's argument for the potential global economic boom is a captivating proposition that could broaden your understanding of immigration's impacts.
The Sickness Is the System: When Capitalism Fails to Save Us from Pandemics or Itself

$14.90

Unit price
per

62% off est. retail
If the recent world events have left you feeling uneasy about the state of our economic system, Richard D. Wolff’s "The Sickness is the System" could offer you a new perspective. It's thoughtful and provocative—a perfect read for anyone interested in understanding the root causes of economic and social issues, and exploring the possibility of alternative systems. Wolff's essays serve as a wake-up call, urging a collective rethink of what 'normal' means in today's world.
Blink: The Power of Thinking Without Thinking

$8.90

Unit price
per

41% off est. retail
"Blink" isn't just a book; it's an eye-opener into the split-second decisions we all make without realizing. If you've ever second-guessed your instincts or felt overwhelmed by too much information, Malcolm Gladwell offers a compelling dive into how our brains work wonders with the bare minimum. Think of it as decluttering for your decision-making process, with a mix of anecdotes and research that might just change how you trust your gut.
Hillbilly Elegy: A Memoir of a Family and Culture in Crisis

$13.90

Unit price
per

"Hillbilly Elegy" might resonate with you if you're intrigued by personal stories that also shed light on larger societal issues. J.D. Vance's journey from a struggling Rust Belt town to the halls of Yale Law School offers a raw, often poignant look into the lives of the white working class. It's both an intimate memoir and a reflection on American society that could offer a new perspective on the challenges faced by a significant part of the population.
The Good Girls: An Ordinary Killing

$8.90

Unit price
per

44% off est. retail
If you're drawn to deep dives into social issues with a true crime lens, "The Good Girls" could really resonate with you. Sonia Faleiro doesn't shy away from the complexities of honor and violence in rural India, as she meticulously investigates the tragic deaths of two young girls. It's a book that not only grips you as a whodunnit but also prompts profound reflection on the cultural and societal forces at play.
Meltdown : Making Sense of a Culture in Crisis - Thryft

$4.90

Unit price
per

If you're a Christian feeling overwhelmed by the shifting values and truth standards of today's world, Honeysett's "Meltdown" could offer you a sense of clarity and direction. It's designed for educated readers like yourself looking to navigate and respond to postmodern challenges from a faith-based perspective. Honeysett illustrates complex philosophical ideas with relatable scenarios, empowering you to refine your worldview and engage with secular culture confidently.
No Filter: The Inside Story of Instagram
Sarah Frier | Simon & Schuster

No Filter: The Inside Story of Instagram

$15.90

Unit price
per

Goodreads rating: 4.11

$15.90

Unit price
per

If you're fascinated by the gripping narratives behind tech giants, "No Filter" offers a front-row seat to Instagram's journey from a chic startup to a social media behemoth. Sarah Frier's deep dive into the photo-sharing app exposes the tensions between innovation and business growth. It's a story that reflects our current societal dilemmas, making it a compelling read for anyone interested in the intersection of technology, culture, and business.
Who Gets In and Why : A Year Inside College Admissions - Thryft

$11.52

Unit price
per

66% off est. retail
"Who Gets In and Why" could be a good read for high school seniors and their parents who are struggling with the daunting task of applying to colleges. This book offers an exceptional insight into the actual college admission process, including the decision-making factors that colleges use. The book provides a reality check on specific admissions statistics and rankings, whilst shedding light on how students need to take a holistic approach in identifying which universities fit them best.
Missoula: Rape and the Justice System in a College Town

$10.90

Unit price
per

"Missoula" isn't just another true crime read; it's a deep dive into the stark realities of campus rape, combining thorough investigative journalism with a compassionate look at the victims' experiences. If you are looking to understand the intersection of collegiate sports, university politics, and the troubling way our justice system handles sexual assault, Jon Krakauer's meticulous narrative delivers an eye-opening perspective that's as heartbreaking as it is necessary. It could change the way you view the handling of sexual crimes in college towns and beyond.

Understanding Social Dynamics

At Thryft, our Sociology section serves as a gateway to understanding complex social structures and behaviours. We offer a wide range of titles covering key sociological theories, modern societal challenges, by influential thinkers. Sociology engages with real world issues, functioning as a lens to view personal and collective social identities. Whether you’re pursuing personal growth or specific academic interests, our collection has something for everyone. Connect with these enlightening works today.